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City Mayor of Yakutsk asserts he is handling unrest in the Old City region

Grigoryev expressed his viewpoint that a police station in the historic district is unnecessary

Yakutsk's Mayor announced he was handling unrest in the Old City district
Yakutsk's Mayor announced he was handling unrest in the Old City district

City Mayor of Yakutsk asserts he is handling unrest in the Old City region

In the Siberian city of Yakutsk, Mayor Evgeny Grigoryev has been spearheading a series of initiatives aimed at transforming the Old Town area. This historic district, known for its vibrant nightlife, has been a source of concern for residents due to disturbances and crime.

Last year, Grigoryev promised to increase foot patrols in the Old Town and open a permanent police station there. While the latter has not materialised, the number of patrols in the area has indeed increased, with police constantly patrolling the Old Town at night.

One of the major concerns in the Old Town has been the proliferation of 'pouring points', establishments that mimic catering facilities but often serve alcohol excessively. In an effort to address this issue, the mayor has set a task for mandatory toilet requirements for these establishments. The intention is to close some and transform others into normal catering points.

Grigoryev has given an example of 'Pivoroob' in the 203rd microdistrict, which is located just 20 meters from a kindergarten. Strong alcohol and wine cannot be sold within 200-300 meters of a social institution according to the new regulations. However, it's worth noting that 'Pivoroob' in the 203rd microdistrict still allows selling beer.

The mayor has also taken measures to limit alcohol sales in Yakutsk, with authorities measuring the distance for sales along a straight line (in a 'ray'). This does not apply to the sale of beer in specific establishments.

The mayor's efforts seem to be bearing fruit, as there hasn't been a significant uproar about disturbances and crime in the Old Town this year. Grigoryev has stated that the Old Town problem lasts for two months a year. He also emphasised that there must be zero tolerance for alcohol-related crimes.

In a positive development, the mayor plans to install a public toilet in the Old Town. This, along with the increased safety measures, is expected to be a long-term resolution for the area.

Despite these improvements, the issue of 'pouring points' remains a concern. By 2030, only a few alcohol-selling stores are expected to remain in the city centre, according to Grigoryev.

As Yakutsk continues to evolve, the Old Town is set to undergo significant changes, aiming to strike a balance between preserving its historical charm and ensuring a safer environment for its residents.

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